The Current Fall FINAL

BEN
REDDING
THE
THE
CURRENT
THE WATER'S RISING
MOTIF
CAFE
TOWN'S NEW HOT SPOT
OLD
INTO CULTURE
FALL
OUR SEASONAL ARTS & CULTURE GUIDE
WITH
SYM-PHONE-IC
NEW IMMERSIVE APP
CSO'S

EDITOR'S LETTER
T
here's something to be said for intentionally maintaining a sense of place. Purpose drives
us all toward individual goals, but meaningful progress happens when purpose-driven
people collectively pursue shared goals in community with one another.
The power of this concept is often diluted in our world today, and it can be hard to see and feel
the lasting effects of community building. In a world constantly rushing to overstimulate us at
every turn, it's easy to lose perspective. We are encouraged to self-distract, to push ever toward
individual progress, and success is measured not in how we make people feel - but by how many
people we can "reach."
At The Columbusite, we refuse to buy into the lie that meaningful work has to be solitary. The
impact of a community on individuals can no longer be ignored if we are to build the type of
places we want our children to live in when they are adults. Just last month, we published a story
with data proving that the most effective form of crime prevention is community involvement.
And what defines a community? People and their sense of place.
Columbus, Georgia and the Chattahoochee Valley are currently experiencing a cultural
renaissance. Almost daily, announcements are made about new events encompassing all elements
of arts and culture. For locals and visitors alike, the question each week is no longer, "What is
there to do here this weekend?" but rather, "How are we going to choose what to do here this
weekend?" Now more than ever, a multi-generational, diverse community of people are actively
working to encourage local culture to flourish here. The result? Our community is thriving.
Don't believe us? Give our community's cultural renaissance a chance to impact your life and
watch what happens. Not sure where to start? Simply slow down and make time to invest in
something new. Take a seat in an audience. Sign up for a class to learn a new skill. Volunteer. Sit
by the river for awhile without your phone. Make it a priority to enjoy a live performance with
someone you love. Order something different at dinner. Listen to something local. Just lean in.
Before long, I'll wager you'll wake up one morning and realize that you have found a deeper sense
of place in our community. Suddenly, you'll find yourself craving encounters with local culture in
new ways.
with our Summer Arts & Culture Guide
Do us a favor when it happens. Remember that feeling. Because that is what makes our hearts skip
a beat. Bringing people to a deeper sense of place in our community through continued investment
in arts and culture is why we do what we do. It's why we continue to work with and for our
community. And it's why we will continue building something together, season after season, for as
long as you'll join us.
The water is rising,
and though it's yet crystal clear,
it's the depth of life that matters here.
Ever onward, together. .
CARRIE BETH WALLACE
Founder & Editor in Chief
Follow along on Instagram and Facebook @thecolumbusite

I N THI S I S S UE
Entrée des Artistes
Ben Redding + Muddy Water
CHICAGO: Inside the Killer Musical
It's All Linked: Alee Link
Food + Bev
Cafe Motif
Local Living
Go Sym-PHONE-ic : CSO's New App
In Full Bloom: Columbus Botanical Garden
Fall Arts & Culture Guide
Worth the Drive
Seeking Serenity: Our Guide to Serenbe

a publication of T H E C O L U M B U S I T E
CURRENT
THE
CARRIE BETH WALLACE
Founder & Editor - in - Chief
LULIE WALLACE
Creative Director
SONNET MOORE
Marketing + Media Manager
CONTRIBUTORS
Blake Blackmon
Charlotte Gallagher
Natalia Temesgen
ON THE COVER
Ben Dallas Redding, co-founder of Muddy Water Theatre Project.
Read his story and more about Muddy Water on page 7.
Ben was photographed in the Bo Bartlett Center at Columbus State University.

ehind-the-scenes
It’s noon and as the stainless steel elevator doors open,
we let out a collective sigh of quiet relief. The
immediate relaxation is met with the simultaneous rush
of inspiration that always accompanies our visits here.
While most trips are for respite, today’s pilgrimage is
for an entirely different purpose.
My subject and I are captivated by the light
immediately. We walk quietly, moving intentionally
slow as we transverse the gallery. In hushed voices, we
share our mutual adoration for its architecture and
discuss the nearly violent dichotomy between the light
and dark themes held in the paintings on each wall. It
moves us both, differently, as it should and does every
time.
Art has a funny way of becoming familiar and yet
greets us differently with each encounter. Some of my
favorite masterpieces live within these walls, but I
return to them often and learn something different
about myself or the world each time.
"Are you ready to get started?" he says.
His question pulls me back to reality.
I smile and nod, familiar to the feeling of welling
inspiration as it beings to set in.
Without further discussion, we move to the center of
the gallery to get to work.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
BEN
DALLAS
REDDING
THE WATER'S RISING .

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
B
enjiman Redding is a Columbus native
that's as strong as they come.
Born and raised along the Chattahoochee, Redding
knows the heart of our people here. “I grew up
being taught that there is no substitution for hard
work,” said Redding in a recent interview. “My
parents raised me to love people well and work
hard. They are so much of what made me into the
man I am today.”
From an early age, Redding showed promise in the
arts. “When I was young, I was always acting and
couldn’t wait for the next time I could be on
stage,” said Redding. “I loved everything about it,
and they did everything she could to get me the
training I needed.”
In high school. Redding yearned for more than
what he could find locally. He ended up leaving
Harris County to attend the prestigious Walnut
Hill School for the Arts in Natick, Massachusetts
and then came back to the South to major in
Musical Theatre at Elon University in North
Carolina.
After graduation, Redding landed a National
Broadway Tour of West Side Story in which he
played Riff. “Being a part of a national tour was a
dream,” said Redding. “I absolutely loved it, but
at the end found myself yearning for a different
experience moving forward.”
➤
For this story, Redding was photographed on location, with permission, in the Bo Bartlett Center.
The masterpieces of Columbus native Bo Bartlett can be seen throughout our story. The painting shown
in the image above is Bartlett's 'September' oil on linen, 48x48.

Redding had his eye on theatre production and direction. An avid writer, Redding spent time in Atlanta working and
gathering ideas for what to do next. It was then that Columbus grabbed his attention. “I came home to visit my mom and
some friends, and couldn’t believe what was happening here. The cultural growth since I’d left was crazy. The arts were
flourishing in ways I’d never seen in my hometown, and I just knew I had to be a part of it.”
It wasn’t long until Redding moved home, and got to work on his first idea. What began as a reimagining of
Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, quickly transformed into a full-fledged production at RiverWalk Amphitheatre that
sold out. R + J Theory premiered to an incredibly diverse crowd of theatre-goers and shook the traditional definition of
local theatre to its core.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
“We were amazed by the turnout,” said Redding. “I
knew Columbus was ready for something new, but I
had no idea that R+J would lead to an entirely new,
expanded audience for local theatre.”
R+J’s success led Redding to begin exploring the
possibility of developing a production company. After
some extensive research, Redding and his friend
Austin Sargent co-founded Muddy Water Theatre
Project - a grassroots, nomadic production company
dedicated to expanding the reach of local theatre in
our community.
Fast-forward six months. Redding and his team at
Muddy Water Theatre Project have completed two
full productions and are gearing up for their third
this Fall. After announcing an ambitious first season,
Muddy Water opened Three Act Play to rave reviews
and a sold out house. The venue, Pop Uptown,
thought it was such a success that they extended the
run for an extra show. Suddenly, almost even
overnight, Muddy Water found themselves on the
map.
“We were completely astounded and humbled by the
support Three Act Play received. While we knew
we’d seen interest, it was another thing entirely to
experience the support firsthand. Everyone from all
walks of life came to support our work. It was a lifechanging
moment for me personally, and the exact
thing we needed to see as a team to push us on to
challenge ourselves even more.”
That challenge has been accepted.
This Fall, Redding and Sargent are tackling their
biggest production yet. They’re bringing back R+J
Theory for a second year, but this time, they’re
taking over Woodruff Park and staging R+J in the
middle of a full renaissance festival.
“It’s Shakespeare in the Park reimagined for our
time,” explained Redding. “We know the community
is ready for it, and we have some of the most
incredible local partners working with us this year.”
He isn’t kidding. The partners are some of the biggest
players in local arts and culture. Redding and Muddy
Water have teamed up with Columbus State
University and Uptown Columbus to pull the festival
and production together.
“It’s important to me that we do this piece, this year.
I’ve seen the word renaissance used a thousand times
to describe our city’s current cultural growth.
Nothing is more true. Our community is flourishing
right now like it never has before. R+J Theory is the
culmination of that. I am so proud that Muddy Water
can bring it to our community at this time in our
history as a city. I love to think of it as a stamp, a
marker of celebrating what is happening at this
moment in time in our city right now.”
It won’t come easily, though. Muddy Water is making
some big strides in audience engagement, and if the
local audience will buy in, Redding believes it will be
worth it.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
“There is no doubt that R+J is a huge ask," said Redding.
"It’s the biggest ask I’ve ever made from our community.
It’s big because I have to have so many people on board.
Our audience members will have to engage in their
surroundings in ways they haven’t in a traditional
theatre before. It’s a renaissance festival and a theatre
production all in one. To get everything we can out of
this as a community, people are going to have to trust us
and show up. I’m asking everyone to hop on board and
lean into what we are building.”
Redding said that act of leaning in can happen in a
variety of ways. "The most simple way for locals to
support Muddy Water is just by showing up,” Redding
explained. “Purchasing a ticket, or sponsoring one for
someone in need, is a wonderful way to help us advance
our mission of bringing new people into our local art
audiences. My biggest fear is that Columbus won’t realize
how big this could be until after it’s over. In the same
way our community’s renaissance has been something we
are all working toward together, R+J is something we’re
going to build hand-in-hand together. We need everyone
who can support the work to come and do so.”
R+J Theory will run the weekend of November 15 & 16 in Woodruff Park. Tickets will go on sale soon with a variety of
price points. Local vendors will be invited to participate in the R+J Renaissance Festival, and guests are invited to dress
in a Renaissance theme. “We’re putting a dress code out there to add yet another element of community engagement to
the entire experience,” said Redding. “We want this to be a true festival feeling. We’re gathering to celebrate the arts
and our community’s growth. We want a vibrant, eclectic, welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy. Our team
believes it will only add to the memory we’re curating for our community to share for decades to come.”
In terms of the actual R+J Theory show, Redding and his team are viewing it as a period piece. “We debuted R+J Theory
last year accompanied by a soundtrack of songs that were still new at the time,” Redding shared. “Now, even just a year
later, those songs are dated but in a good way. We considered updating the soundtrack and changing some things, but it
just wouldn’t have been the same show if we did. So, we’re leaving it as it debuted, but with some minor improvements
and a lot of new faces on stage.”

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
While the production will consist of exactly the same script and soundtrack, only about half of the cast will be the
same. Redding said he’s made some minor adjustments that feel like a luxury to be able to execute.
“The beautiful thing is what a blessing it is as an artist to have the opportunity to take a show like R+J and improve
it. I am really proud of how R+J was received last year, but I am a perfectionist and I am so thankful for the chance
to make it even better this time around.”
Only time will answer the unanswerable questions lingering for all of us. Will R+J become an annual festival of the
arts in our city? Are Redding and his team at Muddy Water going to see the audience engagement they’re hoping
for?
Regardless of the answers, Redding is at peace with where he is. “I am humbled and amazed to be doing the work at
this time in our community’s history. As a Columbus native, I can honestly say that I never thought I’d find my
hometown a place I wanted to live and work as an adult. The growth we are all experiencing is a gift, and I count it
a privilege to just play my part in furthering the arts here. The water is rising, and it’s offering a new depth to life
here. Whatever the future holds for me professionally, I will always have this space and time to look back on and
reflect. I will be grateful to have been actively involved in the here and now, in my hometown, for the rest of my
life.” ◼
For more information on Muddy Water Theatre Project and R+J Theory, click here:
Special thanks to the Bo Bartlett Center and the College of the Arts at Columbus State University for allowing us to photograph on
location.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
It's All Linked
Story by Carrie Beth Wallace | Images by Emily Matthewson and Gina Spinelli
In the middle of Southeast Asia,
suddenly Alee Link knew it was
time for her to move back home.
After years of living away from
Columbus, Georgia, she realized
something was waiting for her here.
What she didn't know was that moving
home would lead to one of the most
fulfilling and important chapters of her
life. A season of healing, affirmation,
community-building, and a renewed
passion for arts and culture. Read our
interview with her to discover how and
why Link can finally say she's found the
place she belongs, at home, in Columbus,
Georgia.
➤
Image by Emily Matthewson Photography.

Why did you come back to Columbus?
To be honest, when I graduated from high
school, I moved straight to New York City and
thought I would never come back… But after
college, I was craving nature and found myself
back home for a gap year to figure out what
was next. I taught dance for my mom and yoga
at Toni’s Dancing School and did every show I
could at the Springer.
It was during this time that Ben and I
connected. We both went to Brookstone our
whole lives and had always known each other,
but never connected. Christmas of 2009,
something had shifted dramatically… he
seemed different in an intriguing way. He was
present, kind, and compassionate and I soon
learned it was because he had recently
incorporated daily meditation and yoga into his
lifestyle and we’ve literally been together ever
since.
Ben was living in LA at the time, but quickly
decided to join me in Columbus. However, as
soon as he moved home, we felt the need to
leave yet again. We knew Columbus was on the
verge of shifting and we wanted to be a part of
it, but it wasn’t quite happening yet. So, we
moved to the Virgin Islands where we were
kayak tour-guides, teaching people about the
importance of the eco-system. I also performed
in and choreographed shows at the local theatre
on the island. Never in a million years would I
have guessed that’s where we’d really start our
lives together, but it was pure perfection.
We were living the dream- having so much fun
and growing together and individually. One
thing I learned while living on St. Thomas was
that no matter where I am, I will always find
culture and be a part of it. It is vital for our
survival.
How wonderful. Where did you go after the
Virgin Islands?
After living island life for about a year, we
decided we were ready to ground down a bit
more. So, we moved to Atlanta, where I taught
yoga full time.
➤
Image by Emily Matthewson Photography.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
I was literally in heaven- but, Ben couldn’t find a job. His
whole life up to adulthood was devoted to soccer (and he
was a star!). In college he studied film and television and
tried to get a job in that field in Atlanta, but it just was
not written in the stars for us at that time. Divine timing!
It was frustrating at the time, but looking back, we are so
grateful because those seeming rejections were actually
golden tickets, leading us down the path we were meant to
be on.
I’m sure. Unfortunately, you have to have a job to get
a job.
God was guiding him very clearly out of the world of film
because he was meant to be in the world of food. This is
when we developed a true love for food and a magical
restaurant experience. He became so passionate, excited,
and engaged in local food, growing food and sustainability.
Fast forward seven years and Ben co-owns a restaurant
that is focused on locally grown, sustainable food. But had
he not received those “rejections” from the Atlanta
workforce, he would not be where he is today.
Where’d you go after Atlanta? What happened next?
We traveled through Southeast Asia, backpacking style.
Why? Because yet again, I felt the need to uproot and
MOVE. It was another moment of divine timing for us,
though. While we were in Thailand, I had a really
profound Savasana (that moment of surrender after a yoga
class) where I had a vision and realization.
I rushed out of the class to find Ben to relay the message:
“I think we need to move home and open a yoga studio
called River Flow Yoga because the river is the vein of our
hometown and our aim will be to teach and guide people
how to live a connected life.” I was talking 90 miles an
hour…
What did he say?
He was like, “Okay.” (laughing) He believes in dreams.
Ben Link’s purpose in life is to help people achieve their
dreams. It’s what he does.
It’s interesting to me that now, he’s opened a restaurant
where he feeds people. More than just on a fundamental
level, Ben wants to feed people on multiple levels. When
you leave Bare Roots, he wants you to leave feeling
empowered and excited to go do your thing - whatever it
is. How cool is that?
Very. So did you both come home at this point?
Yes, and the day we got home, I found out I was pregnant
with Willow. Ben had Dengue Fever at the time, which is
like Malaria and he was so sick. But, I screamed, “Ben,
we’re pregnant!” All he could muster was, “okay” in a very
weak voice. Obviously, he was thrilled, but had no way of
showing it.
Ben’s souvenir from our travels aside, this pregnancy was
THE changing point in our lives. It’s when our energy
shifted completely from needing to move and go
constantly.
The positive pregnancy test was a sign from God saying,
“You are exactly where you’re supposed to be right now.”
It completely rooted us and still gives me chills to think
about.
So, that is really our journey back to Columbus. With
many twists, turns, and adventures along the way, we came
back to our roots with a purpose. We decided we were
going to stop complaining about the city we grew up in and
instead DO something about it. We wanted to be a PART
of the change we could already see happening and for us,
that was through wellness, mindfulness, and connectivity.
AKA: yoga.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
Amazing. So what was it like to open a business and
be one of the first to offer this type of wellness
services here?
It was the more nerve-racking thing I’ve ever done. And
yet, it has been wildly rewarding.
Starting a business is terrifying. What was the
scariest part for you?
I have an insane fear of failure, and this is a huge reason
I practice yoga- to unblock the barriers and release false
narratives I (and society) have built up in my mind, body,
and spirit. Through my practice, I have slowly started to
break down the walls that fuel that fear so that I’m able to
show up in my business, in the community, and in the
world courageously in my truth because when we are
living in authenticity with pride, we are holding up
mirrors for others to do the same and that is how this
community, this world, becomes harmonious.
I knew that opening a yoga studio in a town that didn’t
have much yoga or wellness in general was a gamble, both
financially and for my ego. To be honest, a huge reason I
always felt the need to move away from Columbus was
because I never really felt like I fit into any one group or
community here and I craved that. I couldn’t wait to get
out and find my people… only to realize you never “find
your people.” Your people, your community, your tribe is
everywhere and anywhere, as long as we’re whole in our
truth.
For me, I just had to reconnect with that: my truth. The
lesson in opening a business was actually less about what
other people would think of me and more about being true
to me. When we stand confidently in our autonomy and
express it outwardly for all to see, feel, and experience, we
then hold space for others to expand and grow in their own
unique individuality and THAT is when the magic
happens. So, yes, it was all very scary, but truthfully
essential.
How did you find the community received you upon
your return and opening your new business?
It’s been incredible. Really. The community has been
wonderful. Especially the community we’ve developed here
at River Flow. If these chairs could talk… I mean. After
every class, we sit in this circle of chairs and just share
about our lives together. The tears that have been shed,
the hugs that have been given. It moves me to tears to
think about. Because, yes, I opened a studio for people to
have a space to practice yoga and experience wellness. But
I just had no idea that a family - a tribe - would form.
Were you surprised by that?
Honestly? Yes. Columbus, like anywhere, can be clicky.
And I just didn’t know if the community was ready for
this type of wellness. But, at River Flow, we have a
community that is literally welcomes anyone and
everyone, no matter what. Our focus is to keep the energy
in our sacred space welcoming and inviting for anyone to
show up exactly as they are. We are literally here to hold
space for self-realization, healing, and growth. To me, that
is what makes a beautiful, sustainable, and thriving
community- where we welcome each other as one, knowing
that each unique individual is not only important, but
vital to the community on a macro and micro level.
A huge surprise for us was the military presence at RFY. It
has been such a gift to meet and connect with the brave
families who sacrifice so much for our independence. We
have become a home away from home for many of them. A
place where they feel instantly connected after moving so
often. We provide a refuge of safe tranquility and peace
and to watch them surrender into that magic is so
powerful.
So, yes, while opening a business was wildly nerve-racking,
this adventure has healed my whole soul. It has forced me
out of my ego and into my heart. I literally feel as though
my entire being has been healed and expanded thanks to
the ups and downs, the growth and the lessons… but most
of all the community. To have a place that accepts the
WHOLE me, raw, real, and authentic in my truth has been
unbelievably rewarding and for that, I am forever grateful.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
How has your personal wellness journey gone hand-inhand
with arts and culture? How has the community
you have found here been involved with that process?
I am obsessed with this question and have been thinking
about it a lot recently. I go to the theatre often and every
single time, I am left crying. I am so moved by the
energetic exchange that I can hardly breathe. I have come
to realize that it is the connection that is just so powerfulbetween
audience and performer- not to mention all of the
work that goes on behind the scenes and beforehand to
make the show actually happen. And so, my wellness
journey goes with this experience so beautifully because to
witness live theatre is a practice in deep gratitude and
complete mindfulness. It is a meditation in and of itself.
We live in a world of constant distraction and the theatre
(and art in general) invites us to pause the excess noise and
take the time to allow ourselves to be moved… to truly
FEEL something. And to feel is to be alive. So, arts and
culture is literally life-giving.
Yes. I couldn’t agree more. How has that shaped you?
Whether it’s visiting the magnificence of the Bo Bartlett
Center or witnessing the latest magic from Muddy Water
Theatre Project, I am emotional. I just feel so overwhelmed
with gratitude because the artists and souls behind all of
the incredible projects are being vulnerable enough to
share their stories and express themselves, which then
gives me the extra courage to go out into the world and
share my unique gifts. Art is truly the most beautiful
ripple effect one could ever imagine. It is an energetic
exchange that literally connects people to one another.
It’s easy to feel alone in this mighty world, but to
experience art is to experience your connection and that is
literally why I practice yoga. Yoga brings me into this deep
state of constant awareness and connectivity. The word
“yoga” means “to connect” and so I use the practice on the
mat in order to bring me into a deeper state of
connectivity in the world. THIS is when we truly
experience the fullness of this life: when we’re connected
to ourselves, each other, this planet, and all that is and I
truly believe that thanks to my practice on the mat, I’m
able to make deeper connections in all I see, feel, and
experience in this world, especially with arts and culture
in our community- therefore enhancing my overall state
of wellbeing.
How have your experiences in the arts as a performer
transformed the way you think about our local arts
and culture?
First and foremost, it makes me grateful because I know
how much work, passion, and love goes into each and every
performance and rehearsal. When you’re on stage, you
must be completely present. If the mind wanders, so does
the scene- you’ll mess up a line or forget a step. You must
be totally focused and mindful of what you’re doing and
saying and that lesson teaches us to do the same thing
when we’re in the world. We must stay fully engaged in all
that we do in order to really experience this life.
The stage teaches us this and that’s why I love being
onstage and experience live theatre so much. The arts ask
us to lean in and be present- this lesson alone can and will
transform a community and I can see it happening already
in Columbus.
In what ways?
It all comes down to surrender. Paul Pierce says this in his
opening speech before every show at the Springer,
“Surrender to an evening of live theatre.” This notion of
surrender is what makes the arts such a vital part of our
existence. Surrender means we let go, we release, we soften
into. For the few hours we’re experiencing live theatre, we
are in a state of full on surrender, meaning we are 1,000%
connected to what is. We’re not checking our phones or
distracted by the news. We are fully integrated in the
present moment. This literally becomes a practice for us.
Surrender is a muscle that we must strengthen and train
to experience it more often in our everyday lives.
Surrender is what transforms our lives from mundane to
magic. It is our choice to sleepwalk through a really
fascinating life or LIVE a truly fascinating life and I
believe live theatre guides us into that space.
I agree wholeheartedly. Can you give me an example
of how you’re seeing this personally?
Yes. I went to RiverCenter and saw Kinky Boots. The show
was phenomenal. I was crying because the performance was
so incredible, but by the end, I was emotional over the
audience’s reception of the work. Our community gave
that show a standing ovation.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
At the end, during the lead’s solo at the end in the
nursing home, did you notice how the audience just
kept clapping? The storytelling was phenomenal,
and that proved to me that we are becoming a local
audience that appreciates space for great
storytelling. By listening to other peoples’ stories, it
enables us to tell our own and accept others more
readily. To see Columbus embracing a show like
Kinky Boots was powerful to me. It shows just how
far our city has come. There’s no way that fifteen
years ago, Columbus would have been ready to
accept the message in our audience. That was a huge
moment in Columbus. I mean, I would have cried
anyways (laughing) but I cried the way I did because
of how our community received that story.
Alee, you so clearly love our community and its
people. What’s your favorite thing about our
city?
My favorite thing about Columbus and the reason I
feel rooted here is the river. I don’t know that I
would’ve moved back for good had the river still
been dammed. When they blew that dam, the city
started to explode. There are so many metaphors
connected to the result of the rushing water.
What I love about the river and the reason I named
our studio River Flow, is the life-giving energy it
embodies. Growing up here, we were told to never
dip even a toenail in the Chattahoochee because it
was so filthy. And honestly, we never even ventured
to that part of town. But now that the river has
been released and the water is once again flowing,
she is reconnected to her truth- alive and pure. This
is exactly what happens within ourselves when we
remove the blockages that hold us back from our
whole being. It is easy due to societal conditioning
to put up walls or barriers to protect us from
expressing ourselves fully. But those barriers
eventually build up like energetic plaque in our
bodies, minds, and spirits. When we are living based
on what we think we “should” be doing, saying,
thinking, and wearing, we are damming up our
lights.
Image by Gina Spinelli Photography.
➤

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
The same thing goes for our community.
When they allowed the river to do her
thing, we discovered new species that are in
fact a vital part of our ecosystem, the water
is cleaner than ever, and now we are using
her energy to bring joy and abundance to
our community as a whole. This analogy can
also be used to describe what is happening
culturally in our artistic community as well.
So much has been rediscovered, so many
have found their voice, and new life is
flourishing with pride because a whole city
is holding space and making space for
growth and expansion. Because of the
inspiration from the river, we are seeing
confidence in our city like never before,
leading to profoundly inspiring projects and
businesses. So, let it be known, that we as a
community, as a family, as a tribe, have a
responsibility to continue to uplift and
support our brothers and sisters who are
shining their lights.
To be honest, living in a big city would be
easier for me, as a yoga teacher… But, being
a part of this huge rush and the fluidity of
this city gives me life. Being a part of a
community is what arts and culture are all
about. We all simply want to feel like we
belong and I can finally say with
confidence, I belong in Columbus, GA. ◼
➤
Image by Emily Matthewson Photography.
Connect with this story:
River Flow Yoga Moonlit Tribe Instagram Bare Roots Farmacy

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
C H I C A G O
inside the killer musical opening Springer's new season
Story and images by Blake Blackmon

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
Friday, September 20th marks the exciting opening of Chicago at the Springer Opera House. Audience
members will likely be familiar with one rendition of the 70’s musical whether it’s the original Bob Fosse
directed and choreographed production, the updated 1996 Broadway revival directed by Walter Bobbie with
choreography "in the style of Bob Fosse" by Ann Reinking, or the 2002 film directed and choreographed by Bob
Marshall. The second longest running show on Broadway will kick off the Springer’s new season with pizzazz (and
“All That Jazz!”).
Shane Hall, director and choreographer, was kind enough to answer a few questions and share some insight to the
process of putting on such an iconic production. Read below for the full interview.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Q: So tell me about the process of choreographing such a popular show?
A: The whole process has been a little nerve wracking just because it’s such an iconic musical and Bob Fosse is such
a role model for me. His style of movement is so specific that it either needs to be completely accurate or you need
to go a whole different way with it.
I didn't want to do it wrong. If he were here watching someone do his work, I would want him to be proud of what's
on stage. There have been so many companies of Chicago and it's such a treat to do. For us at the Springer, for my
knowledge of the last 12 years, this is the first full Fosse based show not just a single stylized piece. It's really neat
that we get this sort of dance exposure in our community and onstage
Q: How did you balance past choreography with your own vision?
A: There's a couple of original pieces: “All That Jazz,” the finale “Nowadays,” and “Hot Honey Rag.” It has been a
treat doing those and knowing and making sure that I've given as much detail that I’ve learned from Fosse mentors
of mine to pass on to the cast so that they do it as accurately as possible. Everything else is a tribute to the
movement Fosse choreographed and directed in the 70’s.
And of course the show has been around for so many years. There was also the movie choreographed and directed
by Bob Marshall which brought a sort of new age relativity and obviously movie magic. His movement was inspired
by Fosse, but was larger whereas Fosse’s is more simple and refined. Dance is like fashion; it changes each season.
Each year there is something new to keep up with. He took a new spin on it which was a great tribute to the original
and I love that too. My version has a culmination of all it: from Fosse, to Marshall, Reinking and then of course to
me being an artist and being able to have this opportunity to set the work. I love that about the show.
Q: How was choreographing this show differed from one’s you’ve done for the Springer in the past?
A: I love having kids in shows and ensembles like Beauty and the Beast and Little Mermaid, but this has been a real
treat having a full professional cast of adults. It’s also a smaller cast so it's really intimate and I’ve really enjoyed
that. We were able to get the material out quickly, so the process has become more about refinement. We’re
“cleaning the language” as they call it of the Fosse movement. We’re making sure every hand and finger isolation is
in place as it should be.

ENTRÉE DES ARTISTES
Q: What should our local audience expect when they come
see the show?
A: 100 percent Broadway caliber material! I had the
opportunity about three weeks before we started rehearsal to sit
in what they call a “put in” when a new ensemble member is
going in a show. I got to sit in the house in New York and watch
their rehearsals and the show. I watched a lot of detail of that
and I wanted our show to be everything I saw: the dance, New
York City, Chicago, Bob Fosse, the whole realm of it right here
in Columbus. So that's been my biggest goal —to bring Broadway
directly to this stage.
I think the audience is going to get to see a great show! It’s a
very mature cast of professionals. I’m excited that I get to debut
the new season at the Springer with this particular show. Last
season I had the opportunity with Mama Mia and this is just as
exciting of a show as that, just in a different way. I know that so
many patrons know Chicago one way or another, so I’m excited
they get to see this show and I think that it's a privilege that
the Springer gets to produce this show on their stage. It’s such a
beautiful historic space; Chicago is going to look gorgeous on
that stage. Everybody, the cast and the designers, have worked
so hard to create everything that Chicago needs to be for us. It’s
really beautiful and I’m excited for the audience to see it! ◼
CHICAGO
SHOWTIMES
SEPTEMBER 20, 21*, 26, 27,
28, OCTOBER 3, 4, 5
AT 7:30 P.M.
SEPTEMBER 22, 29,
OCTOBER 6 AT 2:30 P.M.
SPRINGER OPERA HOUSE
GET TICKETS!
*COLUMBUSITE NIGHT
USE CODE 'COLUMBUSITE'
FOR 25% OFF TICKETS
offer only valid for september 21st performance

LOCAL LIVING
go
SYMPH NEIC
Columbus Symphony Orchestra unveils new app
to promote audience engagement.

LOCAL LIVING
The Columbus Symphony Orchestra will open its 2019-20 season with a new app that is expected to transform the
way audience members experience the orchestra. The app, created through InstantEncore, utilizes the latest
technology to enhance live experiences and create deeper relationships between arts organizations and their audiences
around the globe.
Many symphonies around the nation have seen dramatic results with their implementation of InstantEncore. "Being
available to our patrons on a mobile platform is more important than ever," said Joyce DeFrancesco, Director of Media
Relations for Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. "InstantEncore makes it easy for the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
team to collaborate and get lively content out to PSO mobile app users in a consistent and timely manner. The
personalization and engagement that InstantEncore offers is key for us to find new ticket buyers and subscribers and
keep them coming back!" Other organizations that have implemented the app's use include Alabama Shakespeare
Festival, Austin Symphony, Pittsburgh Opera, San Diego Symphony, and more.
CSO’s version of InstantEncore has been specifically developed with their local audience in mind. The app will allow
audience members to access information about upcoming events, buy tickets, read more about the symphony’s
musicians, and read program notes. In addition, audience members with the app will be able to access live footage
from CSO programs like Know the Score and Symphony U, receive notifications on event night of updates, obtain
directions, parking info, videos, photos, and more.
Columbus Symphony (GA)
Columbus Philharmonic Guild, Inc.
Free
Screenshots

Kristen Hudson, Marketing Director & Development Assistant for the CSO, is ecstatic to be bringing this important
resource to the orchestra’s audience. “It will allow us to better connect with our audience members and share with them
what all is happening at the CSO,” said Hudson. “We hope the app will greatly enhance and improve the experience for
our patrons and donors. We have studied the app’s use in symphonies across the country, and the increased engagement
each organization has witnessed is impressive. We can’t wait for the Columbus community to utilize this important new
aspect of the modern symphony experience."
The CSO app is available for free to download on Apple and Android devices. Click here for more information.
If You Go:
What: Henry Kramer Plays Rachmaninoff
When: September 28, 2019
Where: Heard Theatre, RiverCenter
Cost: $20-$39
Contact: www.csoga.org
➤
Image of Henry Kramer courtesy of the CSO.

LOCAL LIVING
on the table
getting it all
W
e live in a world that moves fast. The traditional concept of community is slowly being replaced with
digital relationships facilitated through various applications intended to “advance productivity” of us
as individuals.
While this type of productivity does lend itself to individual success, it’s becoming more and more apparent that it also
comes with some fairly intense disadvantages. Sure, our fast-paced digital world equips us to function at our highest
potential. But it does so without requiring us to actually lean in and personally invest in meaningful conversations with
others. The result? It’s left us wondering what’s next, who our neighbors really are, what they’re interested in, and how
they feel about pertinent issues facing our community. Yes, productivity is high in our culture, but community
involvement could stand a boost nation-wide.
Hence the creation of On the Table.
The Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley
founded On the Table three years ago to promote
community involvement. Designed as a starting place for
meaningful conversations, On the Table has seen
thousands of locals gather together to support the
initiative over the past two years.
“We know big ideas can spring from small conversations
and that people invest in what they help create,” a staff
member said. “That's why we want you to be a part of On
the Table. On the Table is a one-day opportunity to gather
around a table with friends, neighbors, colleagues
and maybe even a few people we are meeting for the first time to talk about the issues, big and small, that impact our
quality of life. When we talk about our experiences and listen to others, we connect and learn about what matters to all
of us.”
By providing an opportunity for community members to gather and discuss important issues in our community, the
initiative has seen growth and involvement from thousands of people across the Chattahoochee Valley. The involvement
has been wide-spread, and the results will be felt for years to come. While some locals choose to just participate in the
annual event and survey, some have formed new groups that now meet regularly to take on action plans conceived at On
the Table.

LOCAL LIVING
On the Table is made possible by a grant from the Knight Foundation. "The Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee
Valley is one of ten community foundations across the entire country chosen by Knight Foundation to participate in this
initiative," said local PR specialist Gabby Wilson. "On the Table Chatt is so special. Support of On the Table advances
Knight Foundation's work to help cities, like Columbus, attract and keep talented people, expand economic opportunities,
and create a culture of civic engagement."
2019 will be the last year for On the Table in the Chattahoochee Valley. This year’s event will take place on October 22,
and will feature numerous “Chatts’ happening throughout the day.
For more information on how you can be involved or sign up to host a table, click here.

in full
BOTANICAL GARDEN CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF GROWTH
COLUMBUS
Story and images by Carrie Beth Wallace

LOCAL LIVING
The Columbus Botanical Garden celebrates
their 20th year this Fall. The beloved
local Garden has grown leaps and bounds
since its inception, and plans are in place to
continue that growth long into the future.
Thanks to Executive Director Stefan Bloodworth
and his recently expanded staff, our city’s
Garden is headed in vibrant new directions that
will put arts and culture at the center of it all.
“The thing that I’m most excited about is
integrating the Columbus arts scene into the
Garden,” said Bloodworth. "One of the main ways
we’re focusing on doing that right now is through the design and construction of our new education and event
center," he continued. "We are renovating the Gin House, which is our barn up on the hill, into a place where
we can host educational symposia. We plan on hosting one or two day conferences on horticulture, floral
arranging, or anything related to the work we’re doing here at The Garden. We also have an amphitheater that
will be associated with it as well. It will be used as a multi-use space for musical or theatrical performances.
It’s going to be wonderful, and a great way for us to put arts and culture at the center of The Garden.”
The decision to incorporate more arts and culture into the Garden has come after a lot of research. “Columbus
has a fascinating cultural and natural history, and it also has a really fascinating future," said Bloodworth. "I
think the future really lies in the performing and visual arts, and in the culinary arts in Columbus as well. We
want to show off those connections as much as possible here via these new spaces at the Garden.”
In addition to the new education and event center, more gardens are being planted throughout the Botanical
Gardens’ expansive grounds. Guests can expect construction to begin as soon as October on the new Pollinator
Garden near the Farmhouse. This new garden will focus both on the inestimable value of supporting a diverse
cast of pollinators as well as the garden design strategies to achieve that end," explained Bloodworth.
A Georgia Native Perennial Garden will focus on the
impressive diversity and beauty of regional wildflowers,
and a Southeast Asian plant collection will be anchored
by an urban forest of Ginkgo and Japanese Maples.
A new children's garden is also in the works that
Bloodworth is thrilled to see as many families utilize as
possible. "We cannot wait to connect a new generation of
Columbus youngsters to the wonders of the natural
world," said Bloodworth. "The planned Children's Secret
Adventure Garden will focus on the fascinating lessons to
be learned through connecting with nature."
These major steps toward growing the Garden’s continued
presence in the community come at an exciting time. The
Garden is gearing up to celebrate 20 years with their
annual Garden Gala on October 14-15.

LOCAL LIVING
In addition to Bloodworth and his team’s presence, the 2019 Garden Gala will
feature an impressive list of speakers including designer Richard Keith
Langham, heirloom experts Jason and Shelley Powell, floral stylist Mary
Pinson, Southern textile artist Aaron Sanders Head, and floral designer and
author Sybil Sylvester.
For the first time, the Garden Gala will feature a new bourbon tasting event
on Tuesday evening. Bourbon & Blooms in the Garden, chaired by Jack and
Ashley Turner, will feature a tasting of specialty bourbons paired with
delicious food and live music. Local vendors will also be on site in the Adams
House during the party for guests to shop at their leisure.
Ticket purchases to Bourbon & Blooms in the Gardens include
an automatically entry into a raffle for a chance to win a bottle of Pappy Van
Winkle Bourbon (the #1 rated Bourbon Whiskey in the world) signed by
CEO, Julian P. Van Winkle, III. For more information, click here.
Wednesday evening's Gala event Dinner with Cheff Scott Peacock will feature
a menu developed specifically for Garden guests by the James Beard Award
winning chef. Peacock is former owner of two award-winning Atlanta
restaurants, and co-authored the popular book The Gift of Southern Cooking
with his dear friend Edna Lewis in 2003.
Gala Director Bob Vardaman is looking forward to this year’s Gala. “This
year’s Gala offers more opportunities to participate, learn, and experience the
Garden than ever before,” said Vardanman. “Unofficially, we are hoping that
this two-day event becomes ‘the party of the year.’ Please support and take
advantage of all of these experiences and help fund the future growth of this
beautiful property.” ◼
For more information on how
to get involved with the
Columbus Botanical Garden,
or to purchase tickets the
Garden Gala, click here.

FALL into
Culture
with our Arts & Culture Guide

SEPTEMBER
September 1-27 Sketching Under the Skylight Exhibit, Bo Bartlett Center
September 15 Andrew Zohn, guitar, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
September 18 Katie Jacobson Landscape Series Art Show, Highland Gallerie
September 19 Historic Columbus Lunch and Lecture, Trinity Episcopal Church
September 19 Salon at Six, Bo Bartlett Center
September 20 - October 6, Chicago, Springer Opera House
September 20 Heist! Columbus Museum
September 20 An Evening with Mozart, faculty recital, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
September 20-21 Columbus Writers Guild Conference
September 21 Jazz at the Bo, Bo Bartlett Center
September 21 Tri-City Latino Festival, Columbus Civic Center
September 22 Schwob Philharmonic, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
September 24 Tuneful Tuesday, Bo Bartlett Center
September 24 Clement Arts Celebration Banquet, St. Luke Ministry Center
September 25 David Diamond Reading & Recital Series, Bo Bartlett Center
September 26 Schwob Wind Ensemble, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
September 27- October 5 Peter and the Star Catcher, CSU Riverside Theatre
September 28 CSO Henry Kramer Plays Rachmaninoff, RiverCenter for the Performing
Arts September 29 Atlanta Youth Wind Symphony & Schwob Wind Ensemble, RiverCenter
September 30 Schwob Jazz Orchestra, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
View the community calendar here!
21

with our Summer Arts & Culture Guide
click for tickets!

OCTOBER
October 1 National Arts and Humanities Month Kickoff Block Party, 1000 Broadway
October 1 - January 10 Wolf Kahn Exhibition, Bo Bartlett Center
October 1 Music Under the Dome, Coca-Cola Space Science Center
October 1 Little Sprouts Program, Columbus Botanical Garden
October 3 Schwob Wind Orchestra, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 4-20 The Rainbow Fish, Springer Opera House
October 4 Rockweave Music & Arts Festival, La Grange
October 5 Columbus Collective Golden Hour Oktoberfest Art Show, Omaha Brewing Company
October 5 Columbus Artists’ Guild 2019 Members Exhibition Reception, Columbus Public Library
October 5 Signal Flow Vol. 1 No. 1, Studio Theatre, RiverCenter
October 6 Joshua May, tenor, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 8 Schwob Singers, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 10 Midtown Mingle, St. Elmo House
October 12 Synovus Fall Festival, Columbus Museum
October 12 CSO Brandenburg Concertos, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
October 14-16 Columbus Botanical Garden Gala
October 15 Tuneful Tuesdays, Bo Barlett Center
October 17 A Night at the Bo, Bo Bartlett Center
October 17 Linwood Ramble, Linwood Cemetery
October 17-19 Audience Building Summit, Springer Opera House
October 18 Yuriy Leonovich, cello, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 19-20 Schwob Concerto Competition, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 22 Katrin Meidell, viola, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 23-34 Fiddler on the Roof, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
October 24 Death by Chocolate, National Civil War Naval Museum
October 25 Choral Conductor Cabaret, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 26 Solo Duo, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 26 CSO Lost in Space, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
October 27 Organ and Friends, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
October 29 YOGC Fall Concert, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
October 29 Salon at Six, Illges House
October 31 Columbus Collective Halloween Art Show and Party, Pop Uptown
View the community calendar here!
21

NOVEMBER
November 1 Schwob Jazz Orchestra, The Loft
November 2 Henry Kramer, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
November 5 Music Under the Dome, Coca-Cola Space Science Center
November 7 Schwob Philharmonic GMTA Concert, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
November 7-17 Yesterday and Today, Springer Opera House
November 8 Gladys Knight, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
November 8 - 16, The Importance of Being Earnest, CSU Riverside Theatre
November 9 Steeplechase, Callaway Gardens Steeplechase Grounds
November 12 YOGC Whitewater Orchestra Festival, Rainey-McCullers School of the Arts
November 16-24 Going on a Bear Hunt, Springer Opera House
November 16 The Illusionists, RiverCenter
November 16 Guitar and Poetry Concert, Studio Theatre, RiverCenter
November 17 Virtuosi String Ensemble, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
November 18 Schwob Philharmonic, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
November 19 Pilobolus, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
November 19 Choral Union, Legacy Hall, RiverCenter
November 23 CSO Fireworks, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
November 30 Small Business Saturday - Shop the Arts Day!
FAMILY & CHILDREN'S EVENTS
September 27- October 5 Peter and the Star Catcher, CSU Riverside Theatre
October 1 National Arts and Humanities Month Kickoff Block Party, 1000 Broadway
October 1 Little Sprouts Program, Columbus Botanical Garden
October 4-20 The Rainbow Fish, Springer Opera House
October 10 Midtown Mingle, St. Elmo House
October 12 Synovus Fall Festival, Columbus Museum
October 23-34 Fiddler on the Roof, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
October 26 CSO Lost in Space, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
October 29 YOGC Fall Concert, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
November 9 Steeplechase, Callaway Gardens Steeplechase Grounds
November 12 YOGC Whitewater Orchestra Festival, Rainey-McCullers School of the Arts
November 16-24 Going on a Bear Hunt, Springer Opera House
November 19 Pilobolus, RiverCenter for the Performing Arts
View the community calendar here!

FOOD + BEV
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Story by Blake Blackmon | Images by Carrie Beth Wallace
28

”
You can paint an endless array of things with a single
color when you know it well.” - Jaime Arraya
The color is brown and the medium isn’t paint, rather something many of us begin our days with: coffee. Jaime Arraya,
owner of Cafe Motif, goes beyond the standard brew, wanting his customers to experience the true art of coffee.
Countless hours, days and months have been dedicated to grow, harvest, source and roast exceptional coffee from a
variety of countries with endless possibilities of captivating and gorgeous tasting notes available. It is Cafe Motif’s goal to
bring that experience to Columbus. It can also be said of Cafe Motif itself that countless hours, days and months have
been dedicated to its conception: 2 years to be specific.
Before coffee, there was art. Jaime grew up studying and believing he would one day be a painter. The idea of opening a
coffee shop wasn’t even on his radar. For awhile he and his wife, Natalie, worked in an office where they coordinated the
routes for deliveries for a coffee supplier. They frequented a coffee shop within the office space that inspired them to
daydream things they would do differently. “It was all hypothetical, we felt like that’s silly, we’re not going to do it and
we don't know how to do it. But the ideas kind of stayed. We kept those ideas,” said Jaime. When they found out they
were going to be parents, however, it altered their goals and led them in the direction of desiring something of their own
where they could work together and enjoy the space as a family: a coffee shop.

The journey wasn’t a clear path. They originally set out
to create their dream coffee shop in Puerto Rico, and
came close to signing the lease when hurricanes Irma
and Maria came and stopped them in their tracks. “For
almost a year we were working on it, and then it just
didn't pan out,” said Jaime. An invitation from a friend
eventually brought them to Columbus, but as far as
they were concerned the coffee shop dream was on
hold. “We had no intention to continue to pursue a
coffee shop in such a new setting,” said Jaime. After
being in Columbus for awhile and exploring the local
coffee scene, however, it was Natalie who eventually
said that there was space in Columbus for the type of
shop they wanted to open. The dream was put back in
motion.
“It is the culmination of persistence: 2 hurricanes, 2
apartments and a 2 year old that has overflowed our
lives with joy...and with the loving support of our
family, we have poured our passion for aesthetics and
hospitality into every inch of this space,” said Jaime.
Cafe Motif feels different than the typical coffee shops today that veer dark and cozy or industrial. This, of course, was
intentional. “We wanted to go against the grain and do what was the opposite of the norm,” said Jaime. His background in art led
to the gallery aesthetics and a central theme of coffee being considered more than just a hit of caffeine, but an art itself. The shop
is carefully designed in realms of simplicity and minimalism, with everything having a purpose. Everything from the customizable
seating, to the immaculate marble bar that provides the perfect viewing spot of a pour-over in the process, was deeply
premeditated.
This environment sets the stage for Jaime’s intention of sharing a different side of coffee to shine. His go-to recommendation for
people to experience this is an Ethiopia Single Origin Coffee. The brightness and fruitiness tend to be unexpected and offer
surprise and delight that he hopes will open customers to a new dimension of coffee they didn’t know it could have. This is also
why Jaime made the controversial decision to not feature syrups in his shop. He debated the topic for awhile. “There’s nothing
wrong with syrups or liking syrups, but there are already a lot of people doing that style of coffee and doing it well. If my goal is
to change the way you do coffee, than offering syrups would mean sacrificing my vision,” he said. His answer to the demand for
syrups is a seasonal drink sweetened with all natural ingredients that has been received incredibly well. Right now it’s an orange
blossom latte and he is open to creating and inventing other alternatives to syrup-flavored drinks by incorporating these natural
coffee cocktails.

Along with unique coffee offerings, Cafe Motif features original twists on popular food dishes as well as original dishes. Jaime’s
friend Jeshua Perez is currently in charge of the menu and finds ways to remix popular dishes and make them his own. In many
ways the menu mirrors the coffee shop-–simple on the surface, but every detail has been well thought out. For example, one of the
menu items is avocado toast, but instead of using just any bread, Jaime has discovered the perfect bread from Root Baking...in
Atlanta. This adds a commute where there didn't have to be one. They drive to Atlanta to get the bread because it’s the perfect
bread for the dish, illustrating that everything down to the bread choice has been decided with great care, no matter the lengths it
takes to get it just right.

FOOD + BEV
Looking to the future of the menu, Jaime has an even bigger vision. “Our goal, hopefully at some point, I would love to
find ways to invest our energy in finding ways to pair coffee with items. I have some ideas for simple pastries; they don't
have to be complicated. It would just be interesting to have a coffee and to be able to tell people we made this cookie for
this particular Columbian coffee,” said Jaime, “It’s something that I don't think a lot of people have explored, and I
think it's as possible as people are doing it with wine and beers.”
The vision for Cafe Motif doesn't stop here. Jaime has ideas for the future involving music and possibly even art. “I
would love to see the space in a different context” He also has a vision for future cuppings and classes to share his
passion and knowledge for coffee with the community.

It comes as no surprise that the name Cafe Motif bears an interesting origin story. It stems from a fascination with Michelin star
restaurants and how their names tend to be minimalistic and short. “I didn’t want a traditional coffee shop name,” said Jaime. In
search of a name that could double as the name of a fine dining restaurant, he turned to the dictionary. He went letter by letter and
finally landed on Motif. “It rang a bell from art school. In art school we would use it a lot and it gave me good memories and after
reviewing the definition, ‘a predominant element in a music or art piece or a pattern,’ it just fit,” He said. Taking the definition to
heart, Jaime believes that their own motif in the cafe is to serve exceptional coffee everyday and educate people on what coffee can
be; that’s their pattern. A big part of this vision is putting people’s need for caffeine as something you drink merely for energy in the
background and showing them that it can be so much more than that and a very enjoyable experience. “The caffeine is just a plus, and
I want to show people that it shouldn't be the primary reason for drinking it,” he said, “and Cafe Motif is something you will
remember as not just a place for caffeine, but an experience.”
The logo even encapsulates Jaime’s vision in entirety: minimalistic yet full of meaning and tied to art. It was brought to fruition by
talented, Atlanta-based graphic designer Drew Kora. After some back and forth they landed on the logo you see today. “He told me
that the logo needed to have a life of its own,” said Jaime. It’s interesting because if you were to zoom in on the logo, it stops being
letters and becomes a pattern itself, referencing back to the definition. “Loving geometric art and minimalism, I just fell in love with
it. It really works,” said Jaime on the design. The glowing sign of the Motif logo is the first thing that might catch your eye behind the
bar, and perhaps you will walk away seeing both the word and coffee differently. ◼
Cafe Motif
3540 Massee Ln

Click
for
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WORTH THE DRIVE
S
erenity
EEKING
S24 HOURS IN
SERENBE
”
A
Story and images by
Charlotte Gallagher
ll beauty is an outward
expression of inward good…”
I stopped for a moment to read the
welcome sign into Serenbe. All that
surrounded me was wide open land for
horses to run and mingle on, a gravel
road into the development’s first
hamlet, a small lake, and a bright,
blue sky. “I have 24 hours to explore
as much as I can,” I thought. “Where
do I even begin? “

I had already checked into the Inn at Serenbe, complete
with all of the little touches that show care and
consideration. There was all-natural shampoo in the
bathroom, complimentary glass water bottles, ground
coffee, and a compost can. The room was simple,
quaint, and full of light from the large windows that
overlooked the field where I would watch Ragtime later
that evening.
I had the option to walk to The Hill Restaurant or rent
a golf cart. Both sounded lovely, but I decided to walk
to really survey the land and to get some exercise. I
started walking down the gravel road and began passing
by horses roaming through bright green, lush fields.
Only a few other cars and golf carts passed by. It was
June 1. I was told this was the beginning of the season
so it wasn’t very crowded yet.
After a 20 minute walk, I reached The Hill Restaurant
and was seated on the patio because the inside was
completely full. My server Gail explained to me that
they have a rotating menu because all their recipes are
locally sourced from whatever is in season. My
appetizer, dinner, and dessert included a Salmon
Tartare with house made chips and avocado, Lamb
Bolognese, and Chocolate Banana Marshmallow
Macarons. Everything was delicious and the whole
experience was a fine balance between fancy and casual.
After my rich dinner, I began the walk back through
the village and noticed how all of the houses were very
close to the sidewalk. I learned later that the intention
was to encourage neighbors to talk to one another
instilling a sense of community and connection. I also
noticed that my entire environment was incredibly
clean.
As I started getting closer to the Serenbe Playhouse I
was already on the edge of my seat. Ragtime, as I was
told, was a favorite amongst theater fanatics. I had also
learned that other performances had included sinking a
ship for Titanic, using zip lines for Peter Pan, and a
real-live headless horseman for Sleepy Hollow. I knew I
was in for a treat.
Once I sat down I watched the actors as they were
warming up doing backbends, ballet moves, chatting
with one another, and really just “acting natural” even
though they were about to begin the show in character.
Most plays are indoors with freezing cold air
conditioning and you don’t get to see the characters
until the show begins. Not at Serenbe. I already felt a
connection to the actors here. I could tell they were so
comfortable with the environment and the characters
they were about to become.
Ragtime was one of the best performances I have ever
seen. I got chills and was moved to tears. One of the
songs called “He Came to Say” has a lyric that states –
“We have the same hearts even though we have
different backgrounds.” It gave me chills.
I arrived at the Playhouse with some time to spare and
was already in awe. The first thing I saw from afar was
the large, white circus-esque tent that covered the nonauditorium
seats and stage.

No matter where I would have been seated, I noticed I would
have been right in the action. There isn’t a bad seat in the
house. I could feel the performers’ energy, dedication, and
intention with every word, movement, and note they belted.
The whole performance reminded me how important live
theatre is for our souls.
Feeling energized and exhausted at the same time, I walked
the 100 yards back to my cozy room, curled up in the
inviting king size bed and passed out. I usually sleep with the
sound of a fan, but I quickly found that I did not need one in
the least that evening and welcomed the quiet. I slept better
than I had in a long time.
Serenbe began in 1991 when Steve Nygren decided to
“retire”. He and his family moved into what is now the
Farmhouse Restaurant. One day he heard a bulldozer nearby
and discovered they were about to tear up the land. He said,
“Oh heck no – don’t ruin my paradise!” and formed an
alliance with other local landowners to save the land and do
something special with it.
According to my tour guide and Serenbe history expert
Micah, Steve and his wife Marie Lupo believe that if you
want to change the world, you have to start in your own
backyard. And that’s exactly what they did.
Micah mentioned that Steve and Marie’s vision wanted to
combine mindfulness, nature, creativity, and hospitality.
Steve already had this sense of hospitality having owned 38
restaurants in multiple states during his younger years. He
ended up selling his restaurants to buy the Farmhouse as a
weekend getaway for his family. In 2004 they broke ground
on the first house in Serenbe. In 2005, the first family
moved into Serenbe. Since then the population has grown to
700 residents.
Micah further explained to our group that the community
contains 4 different “hamlets” or villages that focus on a
different theme - arts for inspiration, agriculture for
nourishment, health for wellbeing, and education for
awareness. Steve had studied how towns were built hundreds
of years ago and fell in love with the sacred geometry of the
English village system and thought, “Why not bring it back?”
We continued walking around the grounds past a pump with
fresh well water, an area for goat yoga, the spot where Micah
and his wife were married, until we reached one of the main
attractions - the Labyrinth, a meditation rock garden that was
modeled after a labyrinth in France.
We continued through the woods until we arrived in the first
hamlet where the Farmer’s Market takes place every
Saturday morning from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The tour finished at
the Blue Eyed Daisy which was the first restaurant in
Serenbe and the smallest LEED (Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design) certified restaurant in the country. I
learned that LEED buildings must meet certain responsible
standards including the foundation, the windows, the
insulation, etc. and these requirements end up reducing the
energy demand by 30-35%.
After a latte at the Blue Eyed Daisy, I walked over to the
Farmer’s Market. After looking at all the delicious goodies
from neighboring farms and watching some kids learn how to
milk a goat, I walked away with some peaches, some kale, and
a Serenbe Hamlet newspaper. Next on the list was lunch at
the Farmhouse with Stevie Seay, Public Relations
Coordinator and assistant to the goat yoga classes at Serenbe.

As we dined over our super healthy vegetable salads, she
explained how all the homes are Earthcraft certified
(https://earthcraft.org/) and use geothermal technology for
cooling and heating. All of the water comes from a well and
they have their own waste treatment system. Many of the
residents have a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
share in which they have a full or partial amount of
vegetables that they can choose from every season. This
encourages that sense of community and connection to nature
by getting people to come to the farm to pick up their food
whilst having conversations with their neighbors.
My next adventure was the afternoon Farm Tour. I hopped in
my car this time as it was in a different hamlet a little
further away. I learned from our tour guide that everything
at Serenbe is grown year-round from organic seeds only. The
chefs in Serenbe will tour the farm every week to choose
which vegetables and herbs they are going to use in their
recipes that week. Therefore, there is always a rotating menu
as the chefs will use what is in season ensuring the purest and
nutritious ingredients possible for the customers – what our
bodies “should” be consuming to keep it in balance. Hence,
my delicious dinner at The Hill the night before and good
night’s sleep.
Up next was a Farm to Table Cooking class. I drove over to
the next hamlet and walked into a well-lit, white-walled room
complete with a dining room table in the center already preset
with silverware, glasses, and menus typed on brown paper
notecards. I picked them up and read that we would be
making Buttermilk Biscuits, Harissa, Aioli, and Green
Goddess Dressing. Mouth watering, once again.
While we waited for the chefs to set up their ingredients they
offered us a glass of wine, beer, or water. The island was so
neatly laid out I felt like I was on a live cooking show. After
almost every step in the cooking process the chefs would clean
the area. The head chef Paddy told us many stories from his
early cooking days and that he learned how to cook from his
grandmother and father. He made heartfelt comments such
as “my grandma knew what she was doing,” “the kitchen is
the heart of the home,” “it brings everyone together”,
“cooking is relative, but so personal”, and “a clean kitchen is
a happy kitchen.” I loved the entire experience.
With a full heart and belly, I made my way back to the
Serenbe Inn where I would complete the day with horseback
riding. I luckily got to have my own private tour with the
instructor Haley and nearly fell asleep on the horse as we
slowly trotted through the magical woods. I chatted with her
about everything I had learned about Serenbe in the last 24
hours and she responded with the best conclusion to it all:
“It doesn’t sound normal, but why couldn’t it be?”
We’ve been conditioned to believe that the “real world” is
full of strip malls, grocery stores, microwavable dinners,
traffic, noise, high rises, air conditioning, getting from here to
there as fast as possible – really we’ve been conditioned that
being stressed all the time is normal because it means we’re
being busy and productive. We have gotten so accustomed to
moving fast that when we finally stand still and gaze at a
flower for more than 10 seconds, it feels odd, unfamiliar, but
also wonderful at the same time because we remember that
being is just as important, if not more, as doing.
Serenbe is a living, breathing community that is showing the
world how it is possible to live a healthy, sustainable, and
creative life while co-existing with others and that the
possibilities are endless.
Later that week, I got to have a phone interview with the
founder himself, Steve Nygren.
Before building Serenbe, Steve asked himself, “What kind of
place do I want to live and others to live in?” He and his wife
would rather work with the land, rather than against it.
They “believe a community is a living part of its natural
surroundings, not something to be built at nature's expense.
[They] believe in biophilia—the theory that there is an
instinctive bond between humans and other living systems.”
Steve explained that by living this theory, they only disturb
30% of the land instead of all of it. He knew that hospitality
was the foundation along with community, art, nature, and
INTENTION in the entire project.
When I asked Steve how they came up with the name
Serenbe, he said, “This is the way people lived hundreds of
years ago and they were happier and healthier. We
discovered the serenity we had been searching for when we
finally BE’d.” ◼

4
tips for your trip
to Serenbe
1
Make use of these links.
To see information on upcoming productions
at Serenbe Playhouse click here.
For general information on Serenbe click here.
3
Challenge
yourself not to plan too much
beforehand – just go and be.
2
Call ahead to make a reservation for dinner,
4
especially on a play night.
Ask a local! When setting out on a walk, make
sure to give yourself enough time to explore.
Ask around about how much time you need
depending on where you’re headed. Serenbe is
expansive, and you’ll want to see as much of it
as you can. Take locals’ advice and plan
accordingly.

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volume II FALL 2019